Andrea Nguyen, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C

In this episode titled “Distinguishing CSU From Chronic Inducible Urticaria Subtypes,” the panel looks at how CSU differs from chronic inducible urticaria (CIndU) and its subtypes. The panelist explains that inducible urticarias have an identifiable physical trigger, the most common being dermatographism, in which scratching, tight clothing, or waistbands provoke hives at the site of pressure. Cold-induced urticaria is another recognizable subtype, often described by patients as hives that appear after re-warming following cold exposure, such as a child breaking out after a chilly soccer practice.

Welcome back to another HCPLive Peers & Perspectives series. In this episode titled “Diagnosing the Hallmark Signs and Symptoms of CSU,” moderator Andrea Nguyen, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, discusses chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) with Matthew Zirwas, MD. The episode opens with the moderator asking the panelist to describe the hallmark signs of CSU and the patient population most affected. The panelist explains that CSU is defined by spontaneously appearing hives that present as raised, red wheals surrounded by a blanched halo, can occur anywhere on the body, and typically resolve and recur unpredictably. He notes that roughly one-third of patients also develop angioedema, deep tissue swelling that commonly affects the lips, face, or hands. While CSU can occur at any age, including in children and older adults, onset is most common among women in their 20s and 30s.